
Sony A7S III
Brand | Sony 2020 |
Model | E40SNILCE7SM3BX7 |
Released Year | 2020 |
Type | Mirrorless Cameras |
Series | 7S |
Compatible Mountings | Sony E |
Photo Sensor Resolution | 4000 Pixels |
Video Resolution | 4K UHD up to 120fps |
File Format | MP4 |
Status | Active |
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Overview
The Sony a7S III is a full-frame mirrorless camera designed for professional videographers and photographers prioritizing exceptional low-light performance and video capabilities. It features a 12.1-megapixel backside-illuminated Exmor R CMOS sensor paired with a BIONZ XR image processor, delivering outstanding sensitivity from ISO 80 to 102,400 expandable to 40-409,600. The camera supports internal 4K video recording up to 120fps with 10-bit 4:2:2 color sampling, making it ideal for cinematic production. A sophisticated Fast Hybrid autofocus system with 759 phase-detection points supports real-time eye AF and tracking, ensuring precise focus in challenging scenarios. The model sports a 9.44 million-dot OLED electronic viewfinder and a vari-angle touchscreen LCD, enhancing usability during video and stills shooting. Robust build quality with weather sealing and a newly designed cooling system enables extended recording sessions without overheating.
Specifications
Built-In Media | Camera Body, Lens & Microphone |
Are Batteries Included | No |
Remote Included | No |
Metering Methods | Light metering using Exmor R CMOS sensor |
Exposure Control | Manual |
Crop Mode | full-frame |
Display Type | OLED |
Display Fixture Type | OLED |
Touch Screen Type | Capacitive |
Has Color Screen | Yes |
Memory Slots Available | 2 |
Write Speed | Several hundred to over a thousand megabytes per second |
Auto Focus Technology | Hybrid Autofocus (HA) |
Focus Features | Autofocus |
Autofocus Points | 759 phase-detection points |
Focus Type | Auto Focus |
Aspect Ratio | 16:9 |
File Format | MP4 |
Effective Still Resolution | 12.1 MP |
JPEG Quality Level | Fine |
Supported Image Format | JPEG, RAW |
Total Still Resolution | 12.1 MP |
Lens Type | Interchangeable Lens |
Zoom | Manual |
Camera Lens | The Sony 200-600mm F5.6-6.3 G Lens SEL200600G offers a versatile focal length range from 200mm to 600mm, making it ideal for capturing distant subjects with precision. The lens features a constant aperture of F5.6-6.3, ensuring consistent performance across the zoom range. |
Real Angle Of View | 12.47 Degrees |
Number of Diaphragm Blades | 9 |
Connectivity Technology | HDMI, USB, Multi Interface Shoe |
Wireless Technology | Bluetooth |
Video Output | HDMI |
Total USB Ports | 1 |
Total Video Out Ports | 1 |
Shooting Modes | Automatic |
Digital-Still | Yes |
Movie Mode | Yes |
Image Capture Type | Stills & Video |
Night vision | No |
Compatible Mountings | Sony E |
Sensor Type | 12.1MP Full-frame Exmor R CMOS |
Image stabilization | Variations in the optical path |
Photo Sensor Resolution | 4000 Pixels |
Photo Sensor Size | Full Frame (35mm) |
Minimum Shutter Speed | 0.000125 seconds |
Form Factor | Mirrorless |
Video Resolution | 4K UHD up to 120fps |
Viewfinder | 0.64-type 9.44M-dot OLED EVF |
Flash Modes | Flash will never fire, The camera automatically decides whether to use the flash based on the lighting conditions, Reduce red-eye effect when flash is used, The flash will always fire, regardless of the lighting conditions, Slow sync mode with red-eye reduction, Slow sync mode without red-eye reduction, and Always-on flashlight mode |
Camera Flash | no flash |
Skill Level | Professional |
Specific Uses For Product | Videography, Photography |
Compatible Devices | Sony cameras with E-mount compatibility and potentially other brands' cameras with an appropriate adapter |
Aperture modes | Manual |
Viewfinder Magnification | 0.9x |
Audio Input | Shotgun Microphone |
Flash Sync Speed | 1/250 |
Video Capture Format | 4k |
Expanded ISO Maximum | 409600 |
Water Resistance Level | Not Water Resistant |
Frame Rate | 120 |
Microphone Technology | Beamforming |
Shutter Type | Focal Plane Shutter |
Crop Factor | 1 |
Number of Channels | 4 |
Mounting Thread Type | Sony E |
Long Exposure Shutter Mode | Bulb |
Has Image Stabilization | Yes |
Lens Mount | Sony E |
Image Processor | BIONZ XR |
ISO Range | 80-102,400 (expandable to 40-409,600) |
Video Formats | XAVC S, XAVC HS, XAVC S-I |
Display | 3.0-inch Vari-angle Touchscreen LCD |
Image Stabilization | 5-axis In-body image stabilization |
Shutter Speed | 1/8000 to 30 seconds |
Continuous Shooting | Up to 10fps |
Storage Media | Dual SD card slots (UHS-II compatible) |
Connectivity | Wi-Fi, Bluetooth, USB-C, HDMI |
Battery Life | Approx. 600 shots (CIPA) |
Dimensions | 128.9 x 96.9 x 80.8 mm |
Weight | Approximately 699 g (with battery and memory card) |
Build | Magnesium alloy body, weather-sealed |
Audio | 3.5mm mic input, headphone jack, XLR adapter support |
Images
Key Advantages
The Sony a7S III boasts exceptional high ISO performance for ultra-low-light photography and video, outperforming many competitors. Its ability to record internal 4K video at up to 120fps with 10-bit 4:2:2 color depth offers filmmakers advanced creative flexibility. The autofocus system is fast, accurate, and reliable even in dim conditions with real-time tracking and eye detection. The camera's cooling system prevents overheating during prolonged video recording, a significant improvement over earlier models. The intuitive interface with customizable controls and a high-resolution EVF enhances operational efficiency. Moreover, it supports multiple professional codecs and external recording options via HDMI, catering to demanding workflows.
Limitations
The 12.1MP sensor resolution may be limiting for photographers requiring high megapixel counts for large prints or extensive cropping. The relatively high price point can be a barrier for hobbyists or entry-level users. Battery life, while improved, still requires multiple batteries for extended professional shoots. The absence of in-body zoom capabilities means users must rely on external lenses for focal length variations. The large file sizes for high bitrate video can require significant storage and high-performance editing systems. Additionally, some users may find the menu system complex due to the extensive features packed into the camera.
FAQ
What sensor does the Sony a7S III use?
The Sony a7S III features a 12.1-megapixel full-frame backside-illuminated Exmor R CMOS sensor.
Can the Sony a7S III record 4K video at high frame rates?
Yes, it can record internal 4K video up to 120 frames per second with 10-bit 4:2:2 color sampling.
Does the Sony a7S III have in-body image stabilization?
Yes, it includes a 5-axis in-body image stabilization system with up to 5.5 stops of compensation.
Is the Sony a7S III suitable for low light photography?
Absolutely, its sensor and processing enable excellent performance at high ISO values, making it ideal for low light.
What type of autofocus system does the a7S III have?
It employs a Fast Hybrid autofocus system with 759 phase-detection points and real-time Eye AF tracking.
Does the camera have a touchscreen?
Yes, it has a vari-angle touchscreen LCD for flexible shooting angles and menu navigation.
Is the Sony a7S III weather-sealed?
Yes, the camera body is robust and features dust and moisture resistance for professional use.
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